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BodyFlex Review: Can You Really Lose Inches in Your Chair?

Body by Jake, Body Sculpting, Facial Exercises

Recently I came across a TV spot for the Greer Childers BodyFlex workout. Like any good infomercial, this one was rather compelling. Pushing past 60, Greer Childers simply looks good and maintains a shape that would challenge many a 30-year-old.

Perhaps the most appealing part of the BodyFlex workout is that most of the exercise routine is performed in a chair.

Then there is Childers’ comparatively youthful face, which doesn’t look the product of plastic surgery. As the BodyFlex 7-minute workout includes facial exercises, this is reason enough for women to take a closer look at the routine.

Background – Why I Bought the BodyFlex by Greer Childers

Never an exercise junkie nor particularly dedicated about fitness, I largely rested on the laurels of my good metabolism until a few years ago.

The treadmill and Body by Jake Bun and Thigh machine became my weapons against flab. While these fitness machines work wonders, I parted with my fitness best friends when I moved.

Additionally, I was physically compelled to take an exercise hiatus for several months. When exercise was possible I wasn’t particularly motivated nor found convenient opportunity to do so. Before realizing it, a year had passed with little exercise credit to my name or to that of my muscles.

This time I didn’t get away it. My body redistributed and added weight in a way that defies physics. Welcome to the world of 40.

Eventually I witnessed the BodyFlex accolades on TV. Inspiration hit me and I landed a new BodyFlex on eBay for about $20. (BodyFlex retail price now lowered to under $30)

BodyFlex, What’s Included
The BodyFlex system is rather simple and at first glance unimpressive. Equipped with a sturdy plastic bar, called a GymBar, the gadget breaks down into two parts and the ends hold a bungee-like cord.

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The exercise bar displays useful BodyFlex moves, and the ends are hooked to accommodate added resistance. This is accomplished by simply rolling the BodyFlex GymBar to shorten the cord and adding about 5lbs. per roll, with a two roll practical maximum.

Equally critical to the workout is the exercise DVD with both beginner and advanced workouts. Without knowledge of the unique breathing and resistance (muscle-against-muscle) techniques shown, the BodyFlex holds little value. A nylon case is also included for this lightweight and inconspicuous workout gadget.

The BodyFlex Audience
Considering the workout and the focus of the exercise, the primary markets for the BodyFlex include women aged 35 plus as well as individuals who find more strenuous exercise difficult — be it from injury, illness, sedentary lifestyle, or otherwise.

BodyFlex Pros:

The BodyFlex workout is manageable by most persons at any fitness level and budget.

After a few practice rounds, it should take about 10 to 15 minutes to complete a workout.

Deep and methodical breathing techniques offers potential pulmonary and other benefits while avoiding conventional aerobics.

Key weakness (for women over 35) are targeted: upper body strength (upper arms, back, chest), hips, waist and abdomen.

Facial exercise, done while utilizing the BodyFlex bar, reduces facial tension and may offer cosmetic benefit.

Providing energy and a sense of accomplishment, the BodyFlex routine may motivate individuals to exercise more.

BodyFlex Cons

Results may vary considerably based on fitness level and diet.

For serious body sculpting and aerobic fitness, additional exercise will likely be needed.

The BodyFlex exercise program, like many, may aggravate an existing back or health condition.

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The BodyFlex is not a scam, however, the marketers of the BodyFlex system have received heat from overstating their fitness claims.

Last Words on the BodyFlex, Exercise Solution or Scam?
Individuals accustomed to regular exercise may find the BodyFlex less than challenging, and hence a waste of money. Although the routine makes for a good substitute while traveling or at work.

Women who desire lost inches without lengthy or strenuous exercise, due to health issues or disinterest, may find the BodyFlex helpful in achieving their goals. The bottom-line is that the BodyFlex is not a cure-all for weight loss goals, and a healthy diet is important to any exercise program.

As for this writer, I find the BodyFlex worth its budget price. Glued to my desk, my upper body suffers from both tension and lack of use, the exercise seems to help. The breathing and facial exercises feel great and I’m motivated to add more to my exercise routine. Meanwhile, I’m optimistic a couple inches will be lost with regular use of the BodyFlex GymBar.

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